Horizons Regional Council

Friday 7 October

Heavy rain results in Makino floodgate activation

A burst of heavy rain resulted in high flow levels for a number of small streams around the Manawatu-Wangauni Region earlier today. While there were no current concerns about major rivers, the Makino flood gates in Feilding were activated.

“We have had a lot of rain overnight with the possibility of more during the weekend. As a precaution to protect Feilding Horizons Regional Council has made the decision to keep the gates in operation over the weekend”, said Brent Limmer, Manawatu District Council General Manager Community and Strategy.

Horizons Regional Council incident controller Ged Shirley says the flood gate activation was in response to a very short notice flood event that saw levels rise quickly in the Makino Stream and its tributaries.

“The Makino Gates were closed temporarily, allowing the stream to fill above them. Once we knew the flow was controlled we partially opened the gates to manage the flow back into the Makino Stream,” says Mr Shirley.

“As a result the Reid’s Line spillway received a small amount of water which was quickly absorbed and the main stem of the Makino Stream through Feilding was kept at a safe level.

“While unlikely, given predicted weather forecasts there is still a possibility of another short notice event at some point over the weekend.

“Based on this level of risk we have decided to leave the gates and systems in their operating range until Monday morning when matters can be reassessed.

“Our staff have also identified minor erosion to flood protection south of Feilding. Emergency repair works are underway and expected to be completed by the end of today.

“We will continue to work with Manawatu District Council and keep adjacent landowners informed until the stream levels are back to normal and all risks are mitigated.”

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